The following information may assist you to evaluate whether the CSL International Internship Program is for you.
1. What is an internship?
An internship with the Centre for Sustainability Leadership is an opportunity to work in a mentored environment to gain training and practical experience in the field of sustainability, whether for your chosen field of study or profession, or for experience to facilitate a career change.
2. How long are the internships?
Internships are typically 3 months long on a full time basis (5 days per week). While this is our preference, we will consider applications for less than three months or for a part time internship on an individual basis. We can also discuss with you fitting the internship program into any travel plans you may have.
3. How much does the CSL internship cost?
CSL do not charge an application fee for the internship program. Internships are unpaid and interns must fund their own transport and living expenses while in Australia, and arrange their own passports, visas and travel insurance.
4. What are the requirements for applying for an internship?
Interns must be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time they start the internship with CSL, and there is no maximum age. Interns must have good English skills, both verbal and written. Interns must also ensure that they are eligible to enter Australia on an appropriate visa.
5. How many hours per week do I need to work?
A full time internship is 35 hours per week. Hours of work are flexible and can be arranged to suit your requirements.
6. Where will I be working from?
CSL’s office is located in the Central Business District of Melbourne.
The address is Level 7, 225 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC. You can go to www.whereis.com to view a map of the location.
7. How do I get around Melbourne?
The Melbourne public transport system consists of trains, trams and buses. CSL’s office in the Melbourne CBD is easily accessible by public transport.
Melbourne also has a taxi system, however taxis can be expensive.
If you have access to a bicycle while in Melbourne, there is also an extensive network of both on road and off road bike paths throughout Melbourne.
8. What is the cost of living in Melbourne?
A summary of typical weekly living expenses you will incur while living in Melbourne are listed below.
|
Item |
Typical |
Notes |
|
|
Rent |
$120.00 |
$200.00 |
Based on share accommodation. Rents typically do not include the cost of utility bills. You may also need to pay a bond upfront, which will be returned to you if there is no damage done to the property. |
|
Food |
$50.00 |
$80.00 |
|
|
Travel |
$28.00 |
$48.00 |
Based on the purchase of a weekly ticket, depending on where you live. |
|
Utilities |
$25.00 |
$60.00 |
Utilities are the share of bills such as phone, gas and electricity that you will be required to contribute to. |
|
Personal Items |
$40.00 |
$80.00 |
|
|
Total |
$263.00 |
$468.00 |
|
More information about the cost of living in Melbourne can be found at www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au.
9. What is the weather like in Melbourne?
The weather in Melbourne is temperate and mild with four distinct seasons. Melbourne has a reputation for having “4 seasons in one day”, so even if you come in summer you will need to have some warm clothing. A range of clothing for all conditions is recommended.
The average minimum and maximum temperatures are:
Summer (December to February): 14-26C., however it is not uncommon to reach mid 30s during summer.
Autumn (March to May): 10-24C.
Winter (June to August): 7-15C.
Spring (September to November): 9-22C.
10. What level of English is required to participate in the program?
Due to the nature of many of CSL’s internship projects you are likely to be interacting with people outside of the CSL office. This may be to undertake interviews, collaborate on projects with other interns or CSL volunteers, canvas support for functions, etc. You will also be required to prepare at least one report as part of your project. You must have a high level of competency in the English skills of grammar, speaking, listening, reading and writing.
As part of the application process we will contact you via phone to assess your listening and speaking skills. The writing sample which you send with your application will be used to assess your grammar and writing skills.
11. What is included in the International Intern Program?
As part of CSL’s International Intern Program, you will receive:
• An orientation of Melbourne with a CSL “buddy” who can show you around the city and the area you are living.
• Free walking tour of Melbourne.
• Training in professionalism, business etiquette, project management, communication and sustainability
• Academic Credit, if required.
• A letter of reference outlining the work undertaken for CSL and the skills and abilities exhibited.
12. Do I need Insurance?
All international interns are required to have travel insurance for the duration of their internship. CSL will not cover any costs associated with accidents, illness or injury.
13. What are the visa requirements for coming to Australia?
All non-citizens of Australia must have a valid visa or re-entry authority to enter Australia. New Zealand citizens travelling on New Zealand passports receive electronic visas entitling them to stay in Australia.
If your sole purpose in coming to Australia is for tourism and to undertake an internship with CSL, you can do this on a tourist visa. If you also intend to work while in Australia you will need to apply for a working visa. If you also intend to study for more than 3 months while in Australia you will need to apply for a Student visa.
In addition to the above requirements, all persons entering Australia must also fill out an incoming passenger card (IPC). All non-citizens are required to make a health and character declaration on the IPC.
Further visa information can be found at www.immi.gov.au.
14. How long will it take to arrange my internship?
The processing of internship applications typically takes 2 weeks. In addition to this you will also need to allow time for yourself to apply for your visa.
15. Do I need to bring my own computer equipment?
We do prefer that you bring your own laptop computer. If you are unable to do so, please let us know so that we make arrangements for a computer for you. Any computer equipment that you bring with you must have up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
16. What happens after my application is accepted?
If your application for an internship is accepted you will be sent a letter confirming your offer. This letter will also include some information to help you with your preparations and arrival in Australia. We will maintain contact with you in the period between accepting your application and when you leave your home country. Contact details for when you arrive in Australia and your start date and time will also be confirmed with you.